PTSD Checklist for DSM-5
PCL-5PTSD Symptom Severity
20 items
2013
α 0.91–0.96
Free
Weathers, F.W., Litz, B.T., Keane, T.M., Palmieri, P.A., Marx, B.P., & Schnurr, P.P.
What it measures
The standard self-report measure of PTSD symptoms aligned to DSM-5 criteria. Assesses the frequency and severity of all 20 PTSD symptoms over the past month. Widely used in trauma research and clinical trials.
Representative items
- Repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience? (Intrusion)
- Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings related to the stressful experience? (Avoidance)
- Feeling distant or cut off from other people? (NACM)
- Being 'superalert' or watchful or on guard? (AAR)
- Having strong negative reactions when something reminded you of the experience? (Intrusion)
Citation
Weathers, F.W., Litz, B.T., Keane, T.M., Palmieri, P.A., Marx, B.P., & Schnurr, P.P. (2013). The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). National Center for PTSD.